News

Spider-like cells inside the brain, spinal cord and eye hunt for invaders, capturing and then devouring them. These cells, called microglia, often play a beneficial role by helping to clear trash and protect the central nervous system against infection.

Budget and Congress

The NEI budget is approximately $675 million (FY2014). The NEI budget requests are submitted to Congress with other NIH institutes as part of the President’s budget request in February. See our Congressional Justifications.

We welcome your questions and comments. Please send general questions and comments to the NEI Office of Science Communications, Public Liaison, and Education. Technical questions about this website can be addressed to the NEI Website Manager.